The Sympathizer: A Review of the Emmy-Nominated Limited Series
Hoa Xuande (left) and Robert Downey Jr. in ‘The Sympathizer.’
Photo Credit: Courtesy of WB Discovery
Introduction
On September 15, Robert Downey Jr. is expected to win his first Emmy as the best supporting actor in a limited series for HBO’s “The Sympathizer”. This highly anticipated event marks another achievement for Downey, who continues to captivate audiences with his extraordinary performances.
Overview
“The Sympathizer” is a thought-provoking seven-episode adaptation of Viet Thanh Nguyen’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel. This HBO series, created by Park Chan-wook and Don McKellar, weaves a complex tale set in the aftermath of the Vietnam War. The story revolves around the unnamed narrator, known as The Captain, portrayed by Hoa Xuande, as he grapples with his complex heritage as a biracial individual and his allegiances as a double agent.
The Captain’s Confession
The narrative unfolds through a confession made by The Captain in a Vietnamese re-education camp several years after the war. The series takes us through his journey, from the final days of the war to the Vietnamese exile community in Los Angeles. This dichotomous existence embodied by The Captain, torn between his dual identities and conflicting loyalties, adds depth to the storyline and prompts us to question the notions of cultural belonging and personal identity.
Robert Downey Jr.’s Performance
While “The Sympathizer” showcases the enigmatic The Captain, it is worth mentioning the notable portrayal by Robert Downey Jr. himself. Downey takes on multiple roles within the series, showcasing his acting versatility. Whether it is his portrayal of the shady CIA agent Claude, the eccentric auteur Nikos, or the Asian-fetishizing professor, Downey’s performances bring a diverse range of characters to life, even though sometimes it may overshadow the main protagonist. Through his charismatic presence, Downey’s characters echo the systems of oppression and colonization, shedding light on the underlying themes of the series.
Visual and Narrative Styles
“The Sympathizer” boasts compelling visuals and cinematography, particularly when directed by Park Chan-wook. The series incorporates clever camera positioning, surreal editing techniques, and vibrant colors, showcasing Park’s distinctive style. However, this distinctive style becomes less prevalent when other directors take the helm. Nevertheless, each episode of the series packs moments of laughter, intensity, and reflection, leading the viewer through a variety of emotional states.
Conclusion
As the series progresses towards its climactic finale, “The Sympathizer” grapples with its thematic richness and attempts to reconcile its multiple narratives. While the performances, particularly by Hoa Xuande and Robert Downey Jr., are commendable, some viewers may find the range of characters overwhelming, causing the central storyline to lose some of its impact. Nonetheless, “The Sympathizer” succeeds in sparking conversations about identity, the lasting effects of war, and the complexities of cultural assimilation.
